Let’s face it. Resolving conflict and smoothing things out with our colleagues is no easy task. Though, there are some steps to take and things to say that will facilitate the process. Using the right words and conveying them in the right manner can really go a long way. In considering this, you would want to make sure to understand the nuances of certain expressions and the effects they would have on those you are having difficulty with. If English is not your native language, then here are a few suggestions as to what you can say to your co-workers when you need to repair a rift politely and delicately.
“I sense that there’s an uneasiness with us.” This sentence lets the other person know that you are aware that something is wrong and that you are not assigning blame. You are just putting the idea out there for your colleague to add his or her thoughts. It’s a good way to open up conversation and see how the person feels about the situation without being too direct or confrontational.
“Let’s take a breather.” If you are in the middle of a tense conversation and the conflict seems to be escalating, then giving pause to the situation may be just what is needed. This phrase is a casual way of suggesting that both parties may need some time to collect their thoughts and reign in their emotions. When you go for that break, you really will be able to take a deep breath and breathe a lot easier!
“Thank you for your candor.” At times, people will tell us how they feel quite directly, and this can be hard to take. Unfiltered truth can stab the heart and make us feel awkward. When that happens, we wouldn’t want to simply react to that kind of feeling, but rather speak in a manner that will not make the situation any more uncomfortable. The polite way to respond is to acknowledge the other person’s courage to really say what was on their mind. Their “candor,” in other words their unfiltered honesty, may just be what we needed to hear.
“I am with you on that.” Here is an expression that shows that you agree to what the other person said. To be “with someone on something” basically means to be on their side of an issue or indicates that you support that person’s view. The tone for the expression is rather casual so it sounds genuine and sincere. If the other person says something that you can agree on, it will go a long way in resolving the issue at hand.
“Your diligence is a credit to the company.” By using this sentence, you are in fact giving a compliment, which is a good method of disarming tension. It’s a nice way to say that you think their hard work has value for the company. When receiving this kind of praise, most people would respond with a “thank you,” prompting them to express a nicety towards you and perhaps change their tone to a more pleasant one. Afterwards, it would be more difficult for them to respond with an unkind comment or criticism.
“Yes, you’re completely right.” If someone is prepared to argue a point and then you interject by admitting that they are 100% correct, the result may be that the person is thrown off guard and might even be at a loss for words. The person might then be less on the offensive and more open to reason. When you use that phrase with people, they can hardly argue it!
These phrases can be a good start to resolving conflict when you find yourself in that sticky situation. They are short and relatively easy to remember. I would suggest to writing them down somewhere handy so that you can refer to them quickly as needed or simply to review before the next conflict! There are a lot more phrases that can be of assistance, so be sure to keep following these articles to keep up with the latest suggestions. If you need to practice and become more proficient in using English skillfully, you can always sign up at English Bridge for the classes. I hope this has been helpful for you. Until next time, keep up the good work with your language learning!
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